Favorite Park Destinations in KC

With being a new downtown Kansas City resident, I wanted to take some time this summer to explore local parks & get active as much as possible. This has been one of my favorite stories to curate so far, because so many of these spots have special memories for me now that I can’t wait to share with you!

Swope Park
3999 Swope Pkwy & E Meyer Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64132

Coming in at over 1,800 acres, Swope Park is more than twice the size of Central Park in NYC, which means there are a LOT of beautiful areas to explore! Recently, some friends & I set up shop near a wooded area by the basketball courts, and brought along a small tent, hammock, and cooler; it is by far one of my favorite memories of the summer. Since the park is so spacious, we felt like we had our own little private location. Located just across the way is Starlight Theatre, Kansas City Zoo, Lakeside Nature Center, Swope Park Pool, and so much more.

To find out more about this location & more details on what Swope Park has to offer, visit the link here: http://kcparks.org/places/swope-park.

Loose Park
5200 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112

Although much smaller in size, Jacob L. Loose Park is considered one of Kansas City’s most popular and historical parks, (and if you’ve gone when all the trees are blooming, it’s not hard to know why!) Between this location and Berkley, these have been my most frequented spots of the summer. Loose is perfect for picnics, hammocks, playing frisbee, having a jam session with your band, or an accidental & delightful nap destination. I also highly recommend checking out the Municipal Rose Garden if you’re able to as well! (As many as 3,000 roses and 150 varieties are growing there now!)

To find out additional information on Loose Park, visit the link here: http://kcparks.org/places/loose-park/.

Mulkey Square Park
W. 13th St. & Summit St., Kansas City, MO

Although not much information can be found on this park online, don’t let that fool you; it does not lack a bit in charm. A hidden gem in the Westside, this park is home to ‘The Hereford Bull’, and has one of the best views of the city. My last visit consisted of a kickball game that ended in defeat, but a couple Boulevard Radler’s & the background helped with the devastating loss ;)

I couldn’t recommend this special spot enough!

To find addresses for Mulkey Square, visit the link here: http://kcparks.org/places/mulkey-square/ (And for fun, if you’d like additional information on The Hereford Bull, visit here: http://kcparks.org/places/the-hereford-bull-2/).

Berkley Riverfront Park
Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64120

This spot is a special one for me, since it was where I reconnected with my love of long boarding this summer. It’s also a favorite spot of mine for walks, as well as grabbing my hammock & lounging a bit in the trees. With sand volleyball courts, trails, free fitness classes, and scenic views along the river, there is no shortage of things that will get you motivated to be outside.

To learn more about each activity at Berkley, visit the link here: https://berkleyriverfront.com/things-to-do/.

The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111

Although not technically a park, the front lawn of the Nelson is one that so many of us have fallen in love with over the years. During the summer months, you will be sure to see lots of picnics, good books, happy puppies, children running, yoga classes, and much more here. Cheesy as it may be, this spot is one of many that first made me fall in love with exploring Kansas City. Added bonus — visiting the museum & their special exhibits before or after, and grabbing a coffee inside at Quay!

For more information on hours & exhibits, visit this link! https://nelson-atkins.org.

Thank you for following along with my top picks for getting out & active this summer in KC! Can’t wait to hear what you think of these spots!